RBI to Issue Banknotes with The New Governor's Signatures

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has made an important announcement that affects the currency we use every day. If you’ve ever looked at an Indian banknote closely, you would have noticed a signature on it. That signature belongs to the Governor of the RBI, and now, with a new Governor in place, fresh banknotes with the new governor’s signatures are on their way!

What’s New?

The RBI has confirmed that it will soon issue ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes bearing the signature of the newly appointed Governor, Shri Sanjay Malhotra. This update is part of a regular process that happens whenever a new RBI Governor takes charge.

However, don’t worry! The design of these new notes will remain the same as the existing ₹100 and ₹200 notes in the Mahatma Gandhi (New) Series. So, they will look identical to the ones already in your wallet, just with a different signature.

Why Does the RBI Issue Banknotes with the New Governor’s Signatures?

The RBI issues banknotes with the new Governor’s signatures is a standard practice that ensures all notes in circulation remain updated and aligned with the current leadership. The RBI Governor is the head of India’s central bank, and their signature on currency notes represents authenticity and trust.

Whenever a new Governor is appointed, fresh banknotes with the new governor’s signatures are printed, but older notes remain valid and can still be used for transactions.

Who is the New RBI Governor?

Shri Sanjay Malhotra took charge as the new Governor of the Reserve Bank of India in December 2024, following the tenure of Shaktikanta Das. The transition in leadership is a routine process, and with it comes the printing of banknotes with the new governor’s signatures.

Will Your Old ₹100 and ₹200 Notes Become Invalid?

Absolutely not! The RBI has clearly stated that all previously issued ₹100 and ₹200 banknotes will continue to be legal tender. This means you can continue using your old notes without any issues. So, if you were worried about your money becoming worthless overnight, rest assured, it won’t!

When Will the New Notes Be Available?

The RBI has not given an exact date but has assured that the RBI to issue banknotes with the new governor’s signatures will be released into circulation shortly. These banknotes with the new Governor’s signatures will start appearing in ATMs, banks, and wallets in the coming weeks.

Why Do Banknotes Have Signatures?

A signature on a banknote is more than just a formality! It is a sign of official approval, ensuring that the note is authentic and backed by the government. Every country follows this practice to maintain trust in its currency.

What This Means for You?

• New ₹100 and ₹200 notes will soon be released with the signature of Governor Sanjay Malhotra.
• The design will remain unchanged, so they will look just like the old ones.
• Your old ₹100 and ₹200 notes are still valid, so you don’t need to rush to exchange them.
• RBI is to issue banknotes with the new governor’s signatures, which is a regular event and nothing to be alarmed about.
• Banknotes with the new governor’s signatures will soon be available in circulation.